Foundations of Research Design and Scientific Principles

Key Aspects of Research Methodology

Characteristics of Research Objectives

Research objectives must be expressed clearly to avoid deviations in the research process. They should be attainable and consistent with each other and the overall study design.

Formulating Research Questions

The research problem should be posed as a direct question. Raising it directly offers the advantage of clarity, minimizing distortion in the research focus.

Justifying Your Research

All research must be justified with clear reasons. Most research is performed with a specific aim or purpose, investigating sufficiently. Research cannot be conducted on a whim; its appropriateness and benefits must be clearly explained.

Evaluating Research Potential

Research is undertaken for various reasons. It may help solve a social problem, construct new knowledge, or generate further research questions.

Features of Mixed Methods Research

Mixed methods research represents a high level of inquiry, combining qualitative and quantitative approaches. This integration can occur throughout the research process or in most stages, requiring proficiency in both models and an open mind. While it adds complexity to study design, it provides the combined advantages of each approach, often integrating both inductive and deductive patterns.

Fundamental Characteristics of Science

1. Provisional: Science is not a finished product but a source of constant analysis. It is evolving and changing, not permanent or final.

2. Open: Scientific activity and the scientists who carry it out are not subject to dogma or requirements to be admitted without question. Instead, their attitude is one of willingness to change and acceptance of procedures and results, regardless of their origin, when appropriate.

3. Systematic: This means that any knowledge found within science possesses integrity and is structured in an intimate relationship with other knowledge.

4. Specialized: Although science is universal in a general sense, it is also true that every science has its own particular field of study.

5. Accumulative: Science benefits from and builds upon all knowledge that has been acquired across all times and locations. Therefore, it is not necessary to continually rediscover each of its components.

6. Methodical: Scientific activity requires an orderly procedure in the search for elements that constitute scientific knowledge, which is acquired and arranged methodically.

7. Explanatory and Predictive: Science provides explanations for any previously studied phenomenon. The accumulation of all knowledge also makes it predictive, allowing for anticipation of future discoveries.